Post Race Blues

Picture this: You spent months training for your big race. Bed by 9 pm, up by 5 am, dialling in your nutrition, weekly check-ins with your coach, analysing running data, regular strength sessions and declining social engagements were just the start. You were wholly committed and entirely in.

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Then, 3,2,1 you're off.

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In the blink of an eye, you've crossed the finish line.

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Regardless of your results, you may begin to feel a loss of purpose. After all, the tireless effort you've invested, both physically and mentally, has culminated. The highs were out of this world. Yet, there's a very real possibility that some serious lows are following closely behind.

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So, how do we tackle post-competition blues? Unfortunately, there's no universal solution. Our responses to life's ups and downs vary widely, and we all have unique ways of finding happiness. Nonetheless, a few strategies have proved helpful for both my clients and myself.

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These are my top three ways to help combat those post-race blues:

1. Have another race in the calendar: Bouncing from one challenging event to another is a risky situation, so I certainly don't recommend signing up for a race too quickly. But sometimes, a tangible goal is enough. Even if it's 12 months away, having an event to look forward to will create a newfound sense of meaning while providing you with plenty of time to rest.
   
   
2. Find joy: This means exactly that! Have fun. Remove yourself from your previous training routine and enjoy a new sport or activity. However, if the last thing you want to do is to pull yourself from your current training circles, then become a pacer! People will love that you are still showing up to the group sessions and are willing to help.
   
   
3. Avoid making rash decisions. This is more likely to occur when a race has not gone to plan. You should never sign up for a competition out of spite, guilt or punishment based on your previous result. Remember, you’re in this for the long run, and every outcome is an opportunity. Embrace your results and learn from them. Allow your body and mind the time they need to recover.
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Please know you're not alone if you cannot shake those post-race blues. It's an exceptionally common experience and completely normal. Don't hesitate to open up to your friends and InnerFight coach. They will support you and help you get back on track. I promise that your love for the run will return.

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Fun  - HONESTY - Simplicity - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - Hard Work